Homeless Marine Used His Last $20 to Buy Stranded Girl Gas. Now He’s Getting a Massive Payday

A woman has stepped up to help a homeless Marine Corps veteran after he used his last $20 to help her purchase gas when she became stranded along Interstate 95. Kate McClure was forced to pull over as her tank reached empty and she immediately began to worry until the veteran, who only identified himself as Johnny, approached her.

As reported by WHDH 7 News, Johnny told McClure, a New Jersey woman who was on her way to Philadelphia to visit a friend, that it wasn’t safe for her to be out of her vehicle. He told her to get back in her car and lock the doors, then he left.

When Johnny returned, he had a red gas can, which he had filled with fuel using his last $20.

McClure promised the Marine Corps veteran that she would return and pay him back. She brought him the $20 along with some food and clothing. When she handed Johnny a box of cereal bars, the first thing he did was ask if she wanted one.

Along the way, McClure discovered that Johnny was once a paramedic following his military service, as she was able to view photos from his Facebook page from before he was homeless.

Along with her boyfriend, Mark D’Amico, McClure launched a GoFundMe campaign to help gather funds so Johnny could secure an apartment and have access to reliable transportation.

On the site, McClure wrote about providing Johnny with food and clothing, but said, “I wish I could do more for this selfless man, who went out of his way just to help me that day. He is such a great guy, and talking to him each time I seem him makes me want to help him more and more.”

She hoped to raise enough for his “first and last month’s rent at an apartment, a reliable vehicle, and 4-6 months worth of expenses.” McClure added, “He is very interested in finding a job, and I believe that with a place to be able to clean up every night and get a good night’s rest, his life can get back to normal.”

“Truly believe that all Jonny needs is one little break. Hopefully with your help I can be the one to give it to him,” wrote McClure

She set a goal of $10,000, but, in just 11 days, the campaign has raised nearly $36,000 to help the Marine veteran get on his feet.

McClure also shared a video of the moment she surprised Johnny with the campaign, though it was created before the initial goal was met.